but we know in the South that the real purpose of manners is to make life easier for everyone, easier both to keep to oneself and to avoid the uneasy commerce of offense and even insult. Either one shakes hands with someone or one ignores him or one kills him. What else is there?
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In Walker Percy's book "Lancelot," the author reflects on the significance of manners in Southern culture. He suggests that the primary role of etiquette is to facilitate smoother interactions among people, helping them navigate social engagements without discomfort or conflict. This perspective highlights the importance of social norms in maintaining harmony within communities.
The quote emphasizes the various ways individuals can respond to others—by greeting them, choosing to remain aloof, or resorting to extreme actions. This stark comparison underscores the complexities of human relationships and the role that social conventions play in balancing personal boundaries with the necessity of interaction.
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